Important Notes:
Keep in mind these could be triggering questions for many students
If a student self-reports lower than a 5 on a sliding scale question, a possible counselor referral is needed.
If a student has a difficult time (beyond appropriate shyness) answering many of these vulnerable questions, a possible counseling referral may be needed.
If a student shares any yellow or red flags with you let them know that you WILL touch base with the school counselor, but they can choose if they want to proceed with the counselor.
“What makes you feel safe?”
“Who do you turn to feel safe?”
“Where can you go to feel safe?”
“What about that made you feel unsafe?”
“Do you feel comfortable protecting yourself if you feel unsafe?”
“How can I support you/ How can I be here for you?” (providing education and information on how to feel safer i.e., apps, things to do such as not being distracted, numbers to have saved in their phone…)
“How do you normally go home, get to school, go to work...?”
“Are you accompanied by others when you go out?”
“Mode of transportation?”
“Are there new people/guests in your home? Do you feel comfortable?”
“Is there someone in your life that makes you feel uncomfortable?”
***Remind students they don't have to answer this question and say something like: “I am still going to provide you resources in the community for safety in case you ever need to use them.”
IF STUDENT SAYS YES immediately loop in LCC, Counselor, Social Worker, Psychologist